Pacman Care Guide

About: Pacman frogs, also known as South American Horned frogs, are native to South America, and get their name due to how their bodies resemble the video game character Pacman. Pacman frogs usually live 7-15 years on average and can grow anywhere from 3-7 inches, depending on if it’s male or female. Frogs absorb liquid through their skin, so it is advised to handle them as little as possible. If you do need to handle them, be sure to wear gloves, or wash your hands to prevent them absorbing the oils and bacteria that are naturally on hands.

Lighting:  Depending on the temperature of your house, you may need a small heat pad or light to keep your pacman at an adequate temperature. Pacmans need a temperature gradient to help them process heat. A temperature gradient can be created by placing a heat source one one far side of the tank. Pacmans need a daytime temperature of around 75-80°F, and a nighttime, or cool side temperature of around 70°F. It is important to never let the daytime temperature fall below 65°F, as it can cause illness or death.

UVB is a type of light that is produced from the sun, and will help process calcium, help make stronger bones and give vitamins that the sun would normally give. Pacman frogs are active during the night, so they don’t need the same UVB requirements other amphibians or reptiles need. It is still highly recommended, and can greatly improve their health, but it is not required for survival.

Tank: Pacman frogs aren’t very active, so a 10 gallon tank is usually considered the minimum tank size. Having a bigger tank is always recommended though, because it can add extra room to explore, hide, and add comfort and safety to a frog’s habitat.

Pacman’s frogs like to hide and burrow in the dirt, so you should have at least 2-3 inches of substrate in the tank. Pacmans require a humidity of around 60-80%, so having a substrate that can hold moisture well is highly beneficial. Usually a mix of coconut coir, dirt and moss will help keep the humidity high, along with misting the tank every other day.

Feeding and Watering: Pacman frogs are nocturnal carnivores that hunt by hiding in the dirt and popping out whenever food passes them. Pacmans can eat any gut loaded (recently fed) insect, like crickets, dubia roaches or earth worms. Their food should also be lightly dusted in calcium powder to help prevent bone diseases.

Because frogs drink through their skin, they should have a water bowl that is big enough for them to fully climb into. Water bowls should be changed daily, to keep your frog clean and healthy.